So much soul! This trio gets down to their own sound so you know the audience digs it. Avishai’s bass is rich and deep with a melodic funk that sings. He does not make it to Los Angeles very often and his run here at the Jazz Bakery is only for two nights, but everyone who has been waiting to see the technician at work made it out for an energetic set of music.
Avishai is a very proficient player. Each of his notes are prominent in their simplicity but, the placement, soul and depth behind his sound produces delightful ballads and tunes that sing and swing. The trio consists of Sam Barsh on piano, Mark Guiliana on drums and Avishai leading the way on acoustic and electric bass.
“Lyla”, the title track from his previous disc, warms with sunshine and flows like the persistent speed of 6/8 love while his tune, “Why is He Gone” sings like a woman who misses her man. Lighting up the bass with harmonics is quite impressive! His percussive harmonic solo has the complexity and logistics of a male ego while sweetly caressing the right spots to make his bass sing like chimes in the wind. It was like romance with Candito and Dorothy Ashby!
I had to roll out for the second set so I can just imagine what he did with his electric bass. Don’t miss Avishi Cohen and his trio when they swing through your town. Check out the performance and feel the music!!!
LeRoy Downs
